It's true, I love Alembic. I'm in turmoil right now, renting my house, possibly foreclosing if things don't work out. And yet, my first thought when I look online is "what's going on at the Alembic forum?" I just want to express my appreciation for the people who make the instruments, and the supporters who make the forum. This is the best music community on the web.

Not a dig at TalkBass, but you don't have to spend much time over there to realize what a special place this is. For the most part, we're a group of mature and supportive musicians who actually have something to say. Hmmm... I guess that WAS a dig at TalkBass (LOL)!!!

"This is the best music community on the web." I think you misspeak by limiting it to music; I have never visited any internet forum on any topic more than 5-10 times before leaving in disgust - except here, where I've been several times a day for almost 5 years, and plan to keep coming. Hope it all works out, Kevin.

Having gone to 2 other sites for other makes I much prefer coming here. One was very rude, esp the moderator who chose to get into a contest about the cost of the instruments etc. I sold the bass and have never gone back. The other has a bit more bawdy humor and judgement on some things. This place is more civil and more welcoming. There have been a few members who have chaffed me on occasion but I have learned the art of the non post and the sidestep.

I may be done with ordering customs for a while but I visit every day, mostly to observe but it is a ritual of sorts to watch how the craft continues to evolve and the folk who love them so much are getting on.

Since 2002 (with a sabbatical around 2005-6), the minute my homepage clears the pier this has always been the first place I go, regardless (EVEN ahead of my favorite Texas cooking sites, no small praise there!) of what else I need to do.

I'd like to think being around all of you has made me a better (I REALLY hope some Dave Houck and Will Gunn has rubbed off on me) and smarter (David Fung is encyclopedic and I really miss Bob Novy, another large-brained humanoid) and a better player (Jimmy Johnson always graciously answers) and I really dig all the rest of you, too.

It's amazing the bond we somehow form despite never having been in the same room, the thrills and chills, and the hurt when we lose someone like Paul TBO (Rest in Peace, brother).

I always hope I've taken my cue from the Wickershams, who are gracious and supportive beyond all reason. I always felt like I needed to 'respect their home', and hope I've acted appropriately.

Some of the other bass forums (do I really need to name names?) remind me of standing in line at a department store on Christmas Eve: Everybody seems to be in a real big hurry to act as rudely and stridently as possible. Plus, it's a little late in the game for me to sit through one more post arguing about stages in playing I sorted out years ago: Do I really need to read one more post why NOT to use a speaker cable for a guitar cable? Then watch the combatants flame each other as soon as somebody tries to answer? Don't think so . . . . .

I can NOT believe I've punched in here 1702 times; but it's been a gas, fellas, and hope it has been for you too.

My thanks to those who have expressed well wishes. We've now moved into our new home, but still no news regarding our prospective renters. I think I'm going to stare at some series instruments for a while, and relax.